Polio vaccine
What is poliomyelitis
Polio is a disease caused by three strains of polio-virus and transmitted via the fecal-oral route. With an incubation period that can exceed 30 days, symptoms include fever, muscle aches and vomiting, even reaching in rare cases to involve the nervous system.
The importance of prevention
Although it has been virtually eradicated in the West, it is still a public health problem in some developing areas of Africa and the Middle East, with an estimated 200,000 cases each year. In the most extreme cases, the virus can cause irreversible paralysis or even death.
The vaccine
Trade name:
Imovax Polio
Polio Infanrix / polioboostrix (polio/tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis)
Infanrix Hexa (polio/tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis/hepatitis b/Haemophilus Influenzae)
The vaccine can be administered from 2 months of age, with 3 doses given 6-8 months apart. The National Vaccination Plan calls for administrations at 3, 5, and 11 years of age. For unvaccinated adults, 2 doses are required 1 to 2 months apart. Booster is at 5 or 6 years for children, or after 6-12 months for adults.
The vaccine is composed of inactivated polio virus types 1, 2 and 3.
It is administered by subcutaneous or intramuscular injection.
The most common side effects are pain and redness at the injection site, fever, headache, and general malaise.
Vaccination should be postponed if you have a high fever. It should be avoided if you have had severe allergic reactions to the vaccine or any of its components. You should consult with a specialist before vaccinating during pregnancy and lactation.
Your safety and health are at the heart of our commitment. You can always count on the experience and expertise of the Ambimed team.
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The information presented is general in nature, is published for general audiences and is not a substitute for the relationship between patient and physician.